Knowledge Base

How do I change the Ultimaker filament?

Use the scrollwheel to the right of the display to highlight “MATERIAL” and select it by pressing down on the scrollwheel. Next, select “CHANGE.” The Ultimaker will guide you through the unloading and loading process for the filament.

Once the extruder heats up, it will automatically unload the filament. Pull the filament out from the back of the printer. You need to re-spin the filament around the spool hanging above the printer. Ultimaker filament is thick, so the filament will probably unspool itself once you let go. Use the clip on the side of the filament spool and feed the filament through the hole. This will ensure it doesn’t unwind and cause a tangle of filament.

You can now press down on the scrollwheel to move to the next step. Pull down the filament color of your choice from above the printer and feed it into the back of the printer, where the upward arrow is pointing. Keep feeding it until you feel it being pulled. Now, watch for the filament emerge in the clear tube. Once you see it, press down on the scrollwheel to load the filament up to the extruder.

Once the filament is near the extruder, you’ll want to watch the bottom of the extruder and wait for filament to emerge. First the old color will extrude, and then the new color. Once you see the new color of filament extrude from the extruder, press down on the scrollwheel. Select the type of plastic, which should be PLA if you’re using the overhead spools.

If you are not using the overhead spools and instead are opting for ABS plastic, you’ll mount the spool to the back of the printer, attaching it to the spool holder. Follow the usual steps and select “ABS” as the type of plastic you’re using for the last step.